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Soil suitability for various types of construction projects and land uses also help to determine <br /> where the City of Pequot Lakes should direct future development. In 1957, Crow Wing County <br /> compiled a Soil Survey that identified areas suitable for various types of development. (Map of <br /> Soil Suitability for Development) By directing growth to suitable areas that can support it with <br /> minimal property damage to landowners or negative impact to the natural environment,the City <br /> of Pequot Lakes can accommodate future growth in a more sustainable manner. <br /> Slope and Topography <br /> Slope and topography serve as important determinants of potential development areas. <br /> Development and altered gradients along slopes can result in restricted scenic views and vistas, <br /> and can contribute to erosion and slope instability.Although Pequot Lakes is rather flat, it does <br /> contain several hilly area located in the northern portion of the City. (Map of Areas with High <br /> Risk of Soil Erosion)These hilly moraines featuring sandy soils on moderately steep slopes are <br /> particularly vulnerable to disturbances caused by development. Since areas offering views are <br /> likely to be targeted for future development,the City of Pequot Lakes must take action to <br /> preserve them for future stability and enjoyment of all residents and visitors. <br /> Mr Quality and Noise Pollution <br /> Residents and visitors in Pequot Lakes value and enjoy clean air and quiet tranquility, largely <br /> due to the area's many forests and lack of traffic congestion. As development continues and the <br /> number of people using automobiles and recreational vehicles increases,air and noise pollution <br /> could become potential problems. By encouraging alternative forms of transportation—including <br /> shuttles and walking,biking, and horseback-riding trails—that connect residents and visitors to <br /> destinations in the area,the City of Pequot Lakes can prevent air pollution from becoming a <br /> problem. To maintain the current levels of air and noise quality,the City should also protect <br /> trees for air purification and noise reduction,enact regulations and designated-use areas for <br /> recreational vehicles(both aquatic and terrestrial),and promote alternative energy processes such <br /> as fuel cells and wind and solar power. <br /> Policies <br /> The following policies-which comply with and reinforce the Crow Wing County <br /> Comprehensive Plan,Pequot Lakes Area Forest Management Plan, Sibley Township <br /> Comprehensive Plan,and the State and Federal regulatory framework for natural resources—are <br /> proposed to guide future growth and development in Pequot Lakes. <br /> • Protect and enhance natural resources and open space that contribute to the character and <br /> vitality of Pequot Lakes. <br /> • Direct future development away from significant and/or sensitive natural resources and <br /> toward suitable areas with existing infrastructure and proper soil and slope characteristics. <br /> • Promote development and construction practices that retain and improve existing natural <br /> features and systems on and around building sites. <br /> • Support more environmentally sound alternatives to transportation,power,stormwater <br /> drainage, fertilizing,and sewer treatment. <br /> • Educate residents and visitors about the value and importance of preserving natural resources <br /> for sustaining the local economy and quality of life and provide them with information on <br /> how to take better care of these resources. <br /> 4 <br />